2009 Subaru Legacy

The 2009 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan known for its standard all-wheel-drive, a feature that sets it apart from many competitors. Engine options included a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder, producing 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 256 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L six-cylinder engine producing 245 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic (with the 2.5L non-turbo), and a 5-speed automatic (with the 2.5L turbo and 3.0L six-cylinder). Owners often appreciate the Legacy’s practicality, all-weather capability, and comfortable ride. Some common complaints revolve around fuel economy (especially with the turbo engine), the somewhat bland interior, and potential maintenance costs associated with the all-wheel-drive system.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253)

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, bubbling in the coolant overflow reservoir, external coolant leaks near the head gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets. It’s often recommended to have the cylinder heads resurfaced during this repair to ensure proper sealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover and/or Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or resealing of the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gaskets: $200-$400; Timing cover reseal: $500-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining sound from the turbocharger, excessive oil consumption, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Starvation to Turbocharger
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure due to inadequate oil supply. This can be caused by clogged oil lines or infrequent oil changes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger and inspection/cleaning/replacement of the oil supply lines. Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil are critical.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Six-Cylinder (EZ30D)

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover and/or Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or resealing of the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gaskets: $250-$500; Timing cover reseal: $600-$1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Non-Turbo 2.5L)

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (Turbo 2.5L and 3.0L)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during shifting, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, and potentially a transmission flush and filter change.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (All Engines)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle that changes with speed, especially during turns.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noise from the front or rear suspension when going over bumps or turning the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$700 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor (either upstream or downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery drains overnight or within a few days of non-use.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draw on the electrical system. Possible causes include a faulty alternator, a malfunctioning relay, or an aftermarket accessory drawing power when the car is off.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1,500+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, makes grinding noises, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue (motor failure, broken tracks, clogged drain tubes) and repair/replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Subaru Legacy can be a reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the engine, particularly head gasket issues in the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine and turbocharger problems in the turbocharged 2.5L engine. Other potential problems include oil leaks, suspension issues, and electrical problems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but addressing them promptly can help prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle’s reliability. The head gasket issue and turbocharger failures can be quite expensive repairs, while other issues like oxygen sensor failures and wheel bearing replacements are generally more manageable. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended.